Although we originated out of seeing a need for one specific Affinity Group elder housing, we have evolved to cover a much broader spectrum of specific Affinity Groups and purposes.Beginning in late 2003, two small groups “desiring LGBT/Affinity Group elder housing” were absorbed into what was later to become known as GLife Housing Coalition. In late 2005 this combined group began networking to form a broader non-profit coalition, following the decision of a “for-profit” Affinity Group Elder Housing developer “not to come to Houston at this time".January & March of 2006 a number of us received email invites to participate in a group that would address the need for senior housing in metro Houston.
Our first luncheon was held in March of 2006. We talked about various community members in metro Houston who might be interested in such effort and the insight and assistance they might bring to such a group. Early on we looked at the statistics facing our generation. We soon realized that we had great ideas but not enough knowledge to deploy those ideas. We agreed to spend the next months studying related issues, hearing professionals and reviewing what was being done in communities around the country. We also found need for both Youth & Young Adults from multiple affinity groups.
We began "Housing" our first Seniors, Youth & Young Adults from multiple Affinity Groups in early 2008. As of 2011 we have more than 210 people "Housed" on 11 different properties in metro-Houston. Additionally, thousands more are housed by our associate organizations around the world. In early 2009 we signed our first "Affinity Group" agreements to work with the new Global Alliances being formed to assert a Progressive Agenda for mutual benefit. As of mid 2011 we have more than 80 such alliances mostly with NGO's and private Trusts.